MSc Human Osteology and Funerary Archaeology

Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Arts and Humanities

We inspire students to explore and excel through imaginative teaching and the world-leading research we conduct across the globe.

One aspect that really sets the Sheffield archaeology department apart is the technology available for research. Completing my MSc at Sheffield brought me many research opportunities and allowed me to develop skills using cutting-edge technologies, such as 3D scanning equipment. After completing my degree I was offered a position as a field archaeologist in Maryland, the USA, where I now work.

Aryel Rigano, MSc Human Osteology and Funerary Archaeology

About the course

September 2018 start

Course description

Sheffield’s MSc in Human Osteology and Funerary Archaeology has offered advanced training in the study of archaeological human bones for 25 years.

This programme will provide you with both the technical skills and knowledge required to undertake analysis of archaeological human remains, and the cultural understanding of funerary practices needed to situate your findings within a broader archaeological and historical context, providing you with the tools to write human history from human remains.

Core modules

Funerary Archaeology

Quantitative Methods in Anthropology and Archaeology

Research Design: planning, execution and presentation

Biological Anthropology I

Biological Anthropology II

Human Anatomy

Human Osteology

Dissertation.

Indicative optional modules

A 15-credit module can be selected from a range across the Faculty of Arts and Humanities.

How we will teach and assess you

Our students come from all around the world and the content of our courses reflects this. You can expect a balanced timetable of lectures, seminars and practicals. Many of our masters courses also include a fieldwork or project work component.

Our teaching staff are leading scholars in their field. Through their research and field projects they are active in generating new knowledge that feeds directly into their teaching.

Part-time study

This course can be taken full-time or part-time.

If you study part-time, you'll take two 15-credit modules in each semester during Year 1 and Year 2, and either a dissertation or placement module over the summer of Year 2. We arrange for you to attend two days a week but we try to be as flexible as possible.

Course duration

1 year full-time

2 years part-time

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree in an arts, humanities or science subject is usually required. Your interest in and knowledge of archaeological matters are more important than the specific discipline of your undergraduate degree.

English language requirements

Overall IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or equivalent.

Fees and funding

If you accept a place on one of our courses, you may be eligible to apply for WRoCAH and University of Sheffield studentships. There are also a number of departmental and programme-specific scholarships available each year. See our website for details.